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Professions pay tribute to 'inspiring' veterinary nurse
Jean Turner RVN.

The RCVS and BVNA have released statements following the passing of Jean Turner RVN.

The RCVS and BVNA have paid tribute to 'inspiring' veterinary nurse, Jean Turner, who has sadly passed away.

The organisations described Ms Turner as ‘a longstanding and prominent member of the veterinary nursing profession’, and ‘a true representative’ for veterinary nurses. 

Jean qualified as a Registered Animal Nursing Auxiliary (RANA) in 1971 and worked in general practice for more than 20 years. During her career, she trained many veterinary nurses and was an RCVS Examiner and Trustee. 

In 2011, Jean won the prestigious RCVS Veterinary Nursing Golden Jubilee Award for her outstanding contribution to veterinary nursing. She was also a trustee of the BVNA Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund since 1999. 

Reflecting on Ms Turner’s impact on the profession, VN Council chair Matthew Rendle said: “I can say from first-hand experience that Jean was a totally inspiring figure for me and many others in veterinary nursing, demonstrated by the fact she won the inaugural Veterinary Nursing Golden Jubilee Award for her enormous contribution.

“She was herself a significant contributor to the story of veterinary nursing, as someone who was dedicated to championing the value of the profession, providing her wisdom and insight to the next generation of veterinary nurses, and encouraging veterinary nurses to have pride and confidence in their skills and experience.”

He added: “She will be very much missed by me and many others in the profession.”

A statement posted on the BVNA’s website reads: “[Jean’s] impact to the veterinary nursing profession and the BVNA was remarkable, as not only was she a BVNA Council member for sixteen years, she was also on the Editorial Board for the VNJ (Veterinary Nursing Journal) and a trustee of the BVNA Daphne Shipman Benevolent Fund since 1999.

“Jean was a true representative for veterinary nursing and the BVNA, she was well-loved and will be sorely missed by all those who knew her.”

Image (C) RCVS.

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The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.